Tamil Nadu intensifies anti-drug drive; over 1,200 arrested
Tamil Nadu School Education and Tamil Development Minister Rajmohan on Sunday reiterated the state government’s firm commitment to eliminating substance abuse, stating that authorities are carrying out an extensive campaign to remove the drug menace from the state.
Speaking to reporters after reviewing preparations for a government exhibition in Madurai, the minister said that enforcement agencies have recently arrested 1,238 people in connection with drug-related activities. In addition, non-bailable warrants have been issued against nearly 2,000 individuals, directing them to surrender before the authorities.
According to Rajmohan, more than 4,000 people linked to narcotics offences will be remanded and lodged in prison as part of the ongoing crackdown. He also noted that drugs confiscated over the past five years are being systematically destroyed in districts across Tamil Nadu. The minister said the government’s objective is to create a drug-free state under the leadership of Chief Minister M.K. Stalin.
Addressing concerns about vacant teaching and administrative posts in government schools, Rajmohan said the School Education Department is coordinating with the Teachers Recruitment Board (TRB) to speed up recruitment. He added that legal measures are being pursued to resolve cases pending before the courts.
The minister also defended the government’s decision to shut down 717 TASMAC outlets, explaining that the closures primarily affected shops located near schools and educational institutions. He said the move was aimed at protecting students from undesirable influences.